Based on coverage from CBC, Global, and CTV.
Saskatchewan's $10-a-Day Child Care Deal Extended
In a move that promises to bring relief to many families across Saskatchewan, the federal and provincial governments have agreed to extend the $10-a-day child-care agreement for another five years, starting in the 2026-27 fiscal year. The announcement was made at the YMCA in Regina by Saskatchewan Education Minister Everett Hindley and Buckley Belanger, Secretary of State for Rural Development.
The extension includes a renewal of the Canada-Saskatchewan Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, with a federal commitment of $1.6 billion over multiple years. This funding will see a three-percent annual increase in base funding starting in 2027-28. One of the notable changes in the agreement is the expanded age eligibility, allowing children who turn six while attending kindergarten to continue receiving $10-a-day care until they finish the school year.
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Impact on Families and Child Care Providers
For many families, this extension is a significant relief. Regina mom Shayla Dietrich, who has two children in subsidized daycare, expressed her gratitude, saying, "As a parent, like 100 per cent, like very excited, very relieved." The extension ensures that parents won't have to face the daunting decision of whether to return to work or stay home due to unaffordable child care costs.
Daycare operators are also welcoming the news. Gurmeet Dhinsa, who runs Sweet Second Home daycare in Saskatoon, noted that the agreement is a relief for both families and operators. "Parents are getting relief, and we are also getting relief," she said, highlighting how the agreement helps keep fees manageable for families with multiple children.
The agreement also opens the door for some for-profit daycares to access the subsidized $10-a-day program, albeit under strict regulations. While the details are still being ironed out, this move aims to create a more inclusive and equitable child care system.
Future Prospects for Early Childhood Education
The Saskatchewan government has emphasized its commitment to building a strong workforce of early childhood education professionals. Since April 2021, over $171 million has been allocated to wage enhancements, training, and professional development. This includes wage supplements of up to $8.85 per hour for certified early childhood educators and tuition-free training programs.
Advocates have long called for a permanent wage grid for daycare workers, and this agreement could be a step in that direction. Cara Werner, director of Southeast Childcare Now, expressed optimism, stating, "So having that funding model, having that wage grid in place is going to be a huge step forward."
The extension of the child-care agreement is seen as a win for Saskatchewan families and the child care sector. As Education Minister Everett Hindley put it, "This is a monumental day for Saskatchewan families and the entire child care sector." With a renewed promise to families, the province aims to continue putting them first, ensuring that affordable child care remains a priority for years to come.
